President William Ruto wore a navy blue suit during the 2023 Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Day, different from his predecessor, Uhuru Kenyatta, who occasionally donned military regalia to the event.
While officiating the event at Embakasi Garrison in Nairobi County, the Commander in Chief also wore a white shirt, a maroon tie and a black cap.
Notably, during the 2022 celebrations held at the Laikipia Air Base, Ruto settled for a navy blue suit, white shirt, and purple tie.
Thus, the head of state has yet to wear a military regalia since assuming office on September 13, 2022.
Conversely, Uhuru often donned different military regalia for the KDF Days, including his last celebrations on October 16, 2021.
Uhuru wore his first military attire on September 5, 2014, while visiting the Archers Post in Samburu County and adopted the tradition throughout his terms.
Kenyans became accustomed to the red military attire he wore at special events such as the Jamhuri Day celebration at Uhuru Gardens on December 12, 2021.
Uhuru's decision to wear military fatigues was explained by his desire to identify with the military. It is worth noting that it is not mandatory for the Commander in Chief to wear military attire during KDF events.
“Our military is the best example of the mosaic that is our Kenyan nation. People from all walks of life are to be found in our military. Ethnicity and other sectarian interests are alien there.
"The President recognises this exemplary role of our military and would want to be identified with it,” former State House Spokesperson Manoa Esipisu explained to the media in 2014.
Until he wears military attire, Ruto may be perceived to have borrowed a leaf from Kenya's second president, Mwai Kibaki, who was never spotted in KDF fatigues. However, the incumbent is known for his love for Kaunda suits.
KDF Day is observed annually to celebrate the bravery of KDF soldiers.
The annual event was first celebrated in 2012 after Kenya sent its soldiers to Somalia under Operation Linda Nchi, launched in October 2011.
